Is the Cocker Spaniel / Poodle Mix right for you?

The basics:RightPet does not advocate the intentional cross-breeding of purebred dogs. But the reality is that most dogs available for adoption at shelters and rescues are mixed breeds. We think it might be helpful to hear from owners of these mixes to see what traits can be found in these dogs who are desperately needing homes.

The first generation Cockapoo is a cross between a pure Cocker Spaniel and a pure Poodle, although subsequent generations may have different proportions of the two breeds in the mix. Often described as the first designer cross-breed, this mix captured the hearts of a nation and undoubtedly contributed to creating the craze for the so-called designer breeds. The Maxi Cockapoo, created with a Standard Poodle, instead of a Toy or Miniature, will be larger and perhaps not as suited to apartment living as its smaller cousins.

Appearance / health:
While all mixed-breed dogs can vary in appearance, the Cockapoo tends to be a small, curly, low-shedding mix that fits well into apartments. If the Poodle in the mix is a Standard, however, your puppy may grow up to be quite a bit larger than you expected.

Behavior / temperament:
While it's impossible to predict the exact traits inherited by a mixed-breed dog, many owners feel the Cockapoo has the intelligence of the Poodle combined with an unusually friendly personality that lets it fit right into family and suburban or city living.